Shower Panels & Boards: Excellent Choices for Bathroom Renovation

Shower stalls and walls can get damaged by consistent use and moisture. In many bathroom installations these days, waterproof materials are preferred. Of the leading materials chosen for shower walls, PVC shower panels and tiles are perhaps the most common. With durability and budget as major considerations, comparing these materials can help a homeowner decide which option to choose.

Tiles have always been a popular option for bathroom and shower walls. It is a highly durable material with a variety of designs that can fit any aesthetic. Another benefit of using tiles is the waterproof quality. It can wit'stand years of use and is also relatively easy to clean. The downside to using tiles however, is the cost associated with installation. It is time consuming to wait for a bathroom to be tiled. For a household that does not have multiple bathrooms, waiting is sometimes not a viable option. Furthermore, tile grout is prone to mould and mildew. Over time, tiles can be hard to maintain and clean. Tiles are also naturally cold. This means that your home needs to spend more on energy to keep the heat inside the bathroom.

Shower panels are fast becoming the choice of many homeowners

The development of shower panels made from PVC has some additional benefits compared with tiles. This is primarily the reason why these days, more people are choosing shower panels.

• One feature of shower panels that make it attractive to homeowners is the easy installation. Some shower panels are tongue and groove which makes them easy to install. Even homeowners who prefer to DIY can do it themselves. This adds to the savings and convenience. You don't have to wait long to have your bathroom walls and shower stalls installed.
• Another common challenge when it comes to installing wall panels is the ability to cover imperfections. Shower wall panels can be directly installed on top of old wall treatment such as cement or tiles. Panels fit just about any surface. The resulting wall is less messy and ready for use in no time.
• Another advantage of using shower panels is that it eliminates the use of grout. Grout can be challenging to clean and is prone to mould and mildew. With shower panels made of PVC, maintenance and clean-up is a breeze. You can use any detergent to wipe it down with no scrubbing required.
• Shower panels also have good insulation quality. This is a desirable feature if you intend to reduce your energy costs. Shower panels can be as thick as 8-10 mm helping retain heat within the shower cubicles.
• Aside from all these obvious benefits, shower panels also come in a wide variety of designs that mimic natural materials such as stone. It will make any bathroom look polished and sophisticated.

Fitting your shower stall with new wall panels also require the addition of wall panel trims and shower enclosure. There are several materials used in the production of shower walls. Here are the most commonly available through JT Spas:

• Laminated MDF. This material is completely waterproof and consists of laminated backing on each side. For a unique look to your bathroom, this material is customisable. Of all the options available, this is considered to be the most expensive.
• PVC panels. This material is the most widely used because of its cost-effectives. It is also lightweight which makes it easy to handle and install.
• Acrylic panels. This material is the thinnest among all options. Although it is thin, it is not as lightweight as PVC. Thos...